Port Vale legend John Rudge will be presented to the crowd at half-time during this evening's clash with the Valliant's to thank supporters for their generosity.
A football friendship was formed between the two clubs due to the way the Vale fans reacted when Royals fans protested against Dai Yongge by getting their meeting abandoned after just 16 minutes.
In return, Royals fans donated almost £10,000 to a charitable appeal close to the heart of Port Vale, a statue fund for legendary manager Rudge- who has been associated to the Burslem club for over 30 years.
Happy Game day! Tonight we have a special guest at the game - John Rudge will be here at the SCL. He will be on the pitch at half time so let’s show him some 💙 #readingfc @ValeSupporters @OfficialPVFC
— Supporters’ Trust At Reading (@STARReading) February 20, 2024
Tonight is the rescheduled tie, and the club president will be welcomed onto the pitch at half-time for both sets of supporters to hear from.
A non-disruptive protest is planned for tonight's meeting, with red cards held up in the 16th minute. Visiting supporters are set to join in alongside their home counterparts.
Port Vale remain £10,000 short of their £100,000 target for their statue, with donations welcomed on the GoFundMe page.
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